15 Mind-Bending Matrix References in Movies and TV Shows

1. Scary Movie 2000，IMDB Rating: 6.3, IMDB Votes: 289796, ID: 0175142
Photo by coveralia.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Scary Movie is a hilarious parody based on popular horror films such as The Matrix. The story revolves around a group of high school students who are accidentally involved in a series of horrific events and begin to be hunted by a mysterious killer wearing a mask. The film parodies and mocks the plots of many well-known horror films. Through exaggerated humour, comical dialogues and nonsensical plots, it brings a light-hearted and hilarious viewing experience to the audience.
2. Shrek 2001，IMDB Rating: 7.9, IMDB Votes: 743536, ID: 0126029
Photo by gosc.pl, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Shrek is about a swamp-dwelling green troll named Shrek, who sets out on an adventure with the talkative donkey Donkey Kong to rescue the trapped Princess Fiona in order to reclaim the territory that is his. The film’s homage to The Matrix, especially Fiona’s fight scene, adds to the film’s already rich pop culture elements.
3. Community 2009，IMDB Rating: 8.5, IMDB Votes: 296237, ID: 1439629
Photo by midlifecrisiscrossover.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Community is the story of a group of diverse students living at Greendale Community College. There’s a great tribute to The Matrix, with both paintball action scenes and homages to classic moments from the film.
4. The Simpsons 1989，IMDB Rating: 8.7, IMDB Votes: 439885, ID: 0096697
Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The Simpsons is an animated sitcom centred around the Simpson family and follows their daily lives in the fictional town of Springfield. From Homer donning a trench coat and sunglasses to Marge experiencing slow motion effects, the show cleverly incorporates these iconic moments. The humour and creativity in The Simpsons is a treat for fans of The Matrix.
5. Family Guy 1999，IMDB Rating: 8.1, IMDB Votes: 367205, ID: 0182576
Photo by telepedia.net, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Family Guy is known for its irreverent humor and countless movie references, including The Matrix. The show’s cutaway gags and parodies often feature characters in Matrix-like scenarios, adding a layer of hilarity and nostalgia for fans of the sci-fi classic. These moments showcase the show’s ability to blend pop culture with its unique comedic style.
6. Rick and Morty: Comic-Con Panel 2013 2013，IMDB Rating: 8.3, IMDB Votes: 43, ID: 3343614
Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Rick and Morty is a show that draws on science fiction and pop culture (including The Matrix). It follows the adventures of genius scientist Rick and his grandson Morty. With frequent references to sci-fi classics such as The Matrix, it blends intelligent satire and musings on pop culture, making it ideal for sci-fi enthusiasts and fans of The Matrix.
7. Space Jam: A New Legacy 2021，IMDB Rating: 4.5, IMDB Votes: 81273, ID: 3554046
Photo by wikifur.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Space Jam: A New Legacy is packed with references to various movies, including a memorable nod to The Matrix. A sports comedy film that blends live action and animation, it follows basketball star LeBron James as he teams up with classic cartoon character Bugs Bunny to save his son through a game of basketball. This playful homage is a highlight for fans of both The Matrix and the original Space Jam.
8. Kung Fu Panda 2008，IMDB Rating: 7.6, IMDB Votes: 529298, ID: 0441773
Photo by blog.hu, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Kung Fu Panda cleverly incorporates elements reminiscent of The Matrix, particularly in its action sequences and themes of destiny and self-belief. It tells the story of Po, a fat, lazy panda who is not good at kung fu, who becomes a ‘dragon warrior’ and overcomes his laziness and cowardice to defeat the forces of evil.
9. The Lego Movie 2014，IMDB Rating: 7.7, IMDB Votes: 392007, ID: 1490017
Photo by coyotepr.uk, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The Lego Movie is a delightful animated adventure that cleverly incorporates Matrix-like themes of self-discovery and rebellion against conformity. With its vibrant animation and witty humor, it draws parallels to The Matrix through its protagonist Emmet, who, much like Neo, is an ordinary individual destined for greatness. The film’s playful yet profound exploration of creativity and individuality makes it a joy to watch, especially with its nods to the iconic sci-fi classic.
10. Zoolander 2001，IMDB Rating: 6.5, IMDB Votes: 294766, ID: 0196229
Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Zoolander, a satirical comedy about the fashion industry, subtly references The Matrix with its brainwashing plot and exaggerated action sequences. Derek is a foolish but good-natured supermodel who, faced with the competition and challenges of life in the fashion industry, gradually finds himself caught up in a vast conspiracy. The movie’s over-the-top humor and absurdity, combined with its clever nods to The Matrix, create a unique and entertaining experience.
11. Ready Player One 2018，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 493375, ID: 1677720
Photo by strangera.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Ready Player One is a visually stunning and nostalgia-packed adventure that pays homage to The Matrix among countless other pop culture references. Directed by Steven Spielberg, the film immerses viewers in a virtual reality world where the lines between reality and simulation blur. Its thrilling action sequences and clever nods to The Matrix make it an exhilarating ride for fans of sci-fi and gaming.
12. Wreck-It Ralph 2012，IMDB Rating: 7.7, IMDB Votes: 463611, ID: 1772341
Photo by draco.pe.kr, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Wreck-It Ralph is about a character in the world of video games, Ralphie, who faces internal struggles and external pressures as he searches for his self-identity and worth. With clever references to The Matrix and other classic video games, the film gives viewers a nostalgic and powerful message about embracing one’s true self.
13. The Matrix Reloaded 2003，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 635825, ID: 0234215
Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The Matrix Reloaded continues the story of Neo, Trinity, and Morpheus as they fight against the machines. The film is packed with action and stunning visual effects, but it also delves deeper into the philosophical questions raised in the first film. The references to The Matrix are clear, with the introduction of new characters and concepts that expand the universe.
14. The Matrix Revolutions 2003，IMDB Rating: 6.7, IMDB Votes: 547647, ID: 0242653
Photo by deviantart.net, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The Matrix Revolutions brings the trilogy to a close with an epic battle between humans and machines. The references to The Matrix are evident throughout, tying together the storylines and characters in a satisfying way. While it may not be as groundbreaking as the first film, it is a worthy end to the trilogy.
15. The Truman Show 1998，IMDB Rating: 8.2, IMDB Votes: 1214221, ID: 0120382
Photo by diggita.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The Truman Show is a thought-provoking film that explores the nature of reality and the power of media. Jim Carrey delivers a standout performance as Truman, a man who discovers that his entire life is a reality TV show. The film’s references to The Matrix are subtle but significant, as both films explore themes of control and illusion. The Truman Show is a clever and engaging film that will leave you questioning the nature of reality.